Best Car Accident Lawyers in Albany

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Albany, Georgia?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Albany is (229) 431-2132.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Albany, Georgia?

  To get a copy of the police report in Albany, submit an Open Records Request Form to the Open Records Officer, C. Nathan Davis, City Attorney. You can access the Open Records Request Form here: https://albanyga.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest. The charge for the copy of the police report is $0.10 per page unless otherwise provided by law.

• Are you eligible to recover compensation for an Albany car accident in which you were partially at fault?

  Georgia is a fault state. It follows the modified comparative negligence rule, which assigns blame in cases of shared fault. This means that if you were partially at fault for a car accident in Albany, you can still recover compensation. However, if you are 50% or more at fault, you will be barred from recovering any damages.

• Is there a time limit in Albany as to when a car accident lawsuit must be filed?

  If you were involved in a car accident in Albany, you have two years to file a personal injury claim. This is according to the Georgia statute of limitations (OCGA 9-3-33). OCGA 9-3-32 also states that for damages related to your car and any other property damaged in the accident, you can bring legal action within four years.

• How can you determine a settlement account in a car accident case in Albany?

  Every car accident case in Albany is unique, which is why there is no direct answer as to how much a settlement amount should be. However, the total amount can be determined by different factors. Physical injuries and financial damages are put into consideration. Moreover, the court studies your and the defendant’s degree of fault.

• Who will be liable for a car accident in Albany during a test drive?

  In any car accident in Albany, the party who caused the accident will be responsible for damages or potential harm. If you were test driving a car and caused an accident, you will be liable for your actions. Car dealers usually have fleet insurance, so if they were the at-fault driver, the dealer will cover the damage. If another driver causes the crash while you are test driving, his/her insurance will be used for the claims. The dealership will rely on the fleet insurance if the other driver has no insurance coverage.

• Who will be liable for an Uber or Lyft car accident in Albany?

  Liability in an Albany rideshare accident depends on various circumstances. If the rideshare driver was on duty with a passenger, the rideshare company is to offer at least $1 million per accident for death, bodily injury, and/or property damage. If the driver was on duty but awaiting a ride request, the rideshare company is to offer $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident or death liability coverage, and $50,000 per accident for property damage coverage. The driver's personal insurance will be used if the driver is not logged into the rideshare mobile app at the time of the accident.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.